The best walks and hikes in Monroe County
4.8
(117)
1,451
hikers
53
hikes
Hiking in Monroe County, Pennsylvania, features diverse natural landscapes, characterized by mountainous terrain, river valleys, and extensive forests. The region includes the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, with the Delaware River and prominent peaks like Mount Minsi. Numerous waterfalls, wetlands, and varied ecosystems provide a range of environments for outdoor exploration. The area offers options for various ability levels, from easy walks to more challenging climbs.
Best hiking trails in Monroe County
- The most popular hiking route is Appalachian Trail: Mount Minsi, a 6.7 miles (10.9 km) trail that takes 3 hours 5 minutes to complete. This moderate route offers views of the Delaware Water Gap.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Lake Lenape to Totts Gap via Appalachian Trail, a moderate 8.9 miles (14.4 km) path. This trail leads through varied forest and offers views along the Appalachian Trail.
- Local hikers also love the Sunfish Pond via Appalachian Trail, a 4.2 miles (6.8 km) trail leading through mountainous terrain, often completed in about 2 hours 3 minutes.
- Hiking in Monroe County is defined by mountainous terrain, river valleys, and diverse ecosystems including wetlands and forests. The network offers options for various ability levels, from easy walks to more challenging climbs.
- The routes in Monroe County are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 50 reviews. More than 700 hikers have used komoot to explore Monroe County's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 26, 2026
5.0
(2)
25
hikers
3.97km
01:10
120m
120m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
16
hikers
14.4km
04:12
380m
380m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
15
hikers
6.84km
02:03
340m
10m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
15
hikers
2.84km
01:10
340m
10m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
8
hikers
5.17km
01:24
60m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
hikers
10.9km
03:04
130m
390m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
hikers
7.80km
02:00
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
5
hikers
2.55km
00:42
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
28.9km
08:17
600m
630m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
3.0
(1)
3
hikers
1.58km
00:24
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Monroe County
Hiking around Delaware Water Gap
Hiking around Arlington Heights
Hiking in Cherry Valley National Wildlife Refuge
Hiking around East Stroudsburg
Hiking around Stroudsburg
Hiking in Tobyhanna State Park
Hiking around Saylorsburg
Hiking around Emerald Lakes
Hiking around Mount Pocono
Hiking around Penn Estates
Other adventures in Monroe County
Tips from the Community
There is a nice bench along the main trail where you can rest and enjoy the scenery. A short trail loops around the lake and takes you down to the water's edge near the parking lot.
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This is the best overlook you will get of the Water Gap. The view of Mount Tam's partially exposed diagonally-layered cliff face makes for a dramatic sight across the Delaware River. This is also an epic sunrise spot! The summit is not far up the trail from here and yields views south over the countryside, but this is the highlight of the mountain.
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This is your first overlook of Minsi and the Delaware. A great stopping point if you don't want to go all the way to the overlook at the top of the mountain. This is a nice sunset spot, and much easier to get down from at dusk than the summit.
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Big Pocono State Park offers stunning panoramic views and diverse recreational opportunities. Positioned on Camelback Mountain, the park provides a vantage point for breathtaking vistas of the Pocono Mountains and beyond. Besides multiple hiking trails, you can find picnic areas nearby to take a break.
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Eureka Creek runs right across the Appalachian Trail and into the Delaware River, where the state line for Pennsylvania and New Jersey lies. Here hikers can fill up water to be filtered, and the small stream must be crossed. Hikers can find some small waterfalls along the creek within the rhododendron jungle.
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At 1,542 feet (470 m) in elevation, Kittatinny Mountain sits on the Appalachian Trail and offers great views over the surrounding valley. You might find yourself sharing the summit — or the trail — with a wide variety of hikers, from through-hikers intent on completing the Appalachian Trail to casual day hikers and families out for an evening trek.
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There are no shelters along the stretch of the Appalachian Trail that runs through Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, but there are a handful of backcountry campsites where you can camp. Camping is restricted to through-hikers who are hiking for two or more consecutive days; details here: https://www.nps.gov/dewa/planyourvisit/backpacking-campsites.htm
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Monroe County?
Monroe County offers a diverse network of over 25 hiking trails, catering to various skill levels. On komoot, you'll find 29 recorded routes, including 19 easy, 9 moderate, and 1 difficult trail.
Are there family-friendly hiking options in Monroe County?
Yes, Monroe County has many family-friendly trails, with 19 easy routes available. A great option for families is the Hidden Lake Loop in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, which is an easy 1.9-mile (3.1 km) path. The Tannersville Cranberry Bog Preserve also offers easy boardwalk trails suitable for nature walks.
Are there any trails with waterfalls in Monroe County?
Monroe County is renowned for its stunning waterfalls. While specific komoot routes might not directly lead to all of them, the region is home to Bushkill Falls, often called the 'Niagara of Pennsylvania,' featuring eight impressive waterfalls. Raymondskill Falls, the highest waterfall in Pennsylvania, is also nearby within the Delaware Water Gap area. These areas offer various trails to experience the cascades.
What kind of scenic views can I expect on hikes in Monroe County?
Hikers in Monroe County can expect breathtaking views, especially from mountainous terrain. Trails around Mount Minsi, such as the Mount Minsi loop, offer panoramic vistas of the Delaware Water Gap. Big Pocono State Park on Camelback Mountain also provides scenic views extending into three states.
Are there any circular hiking routes in Monroe County?
Yes, many trails in Monroe County are designed as loops, offering varied scenery without retracing your steps. Examples include the Tobyhanna Lake Loop, the Mount Minsi Road Loop, and the Pocono Heritage Trail loop.
What are some notable natural attractions or landmarks to see while hiking?
Beyond the trails themselves, Monroe County offers several natural attractions. The expansive Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is a major highlight. You can also explore Big Pocono State Park for stunning views, or visit the unique wetland environment of the Tannersville Cranberry Bog Preserve. The iconic Appalachian Trail also passes through the region.
What do other hikers enjoy the most about hiking in Monroe County?
The hiking experience in Monroe County is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 40 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the diverse natural landscapes, the well-maintained trails, and the rewarding views, particularly in areas like the Delaware Water Gap.
Are there any accessible hiking trails for those with mobility considerations?
Yes, the region offers some accessible options. Within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, the Dingmans Falls boardwalk provides a wheelchair-accessible path to experience the natural beauty. The McDade Recreational Trail is also known for its packed gravel and easy segments, making it suitable for various users.
Can I hike with my dog on trails in Monroe County?
Many trails in Monroe County are dog-friendly, but it's always best to check specific park regulations before heading out. Generally, state parks and national recreation areas allow leashed dogs on trails. For example, trails within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area are typically dog-friendly.
What are some less crowded hiking options in Monroe County?
For a quieter experience, consider exploring trails in less frequented preserves or state game lands. The Mount Wismer loop in Gravel Family Preserve or the Deep Lake Trail loop in State Game Lands Number 38 might offer a more serene hiking experience compared to the more popular spots.
Are there any trails that pass by lakes in Monroe County?
Yes, several trails offer beautiful lake views or circle around lakes. The Tobyhanna Lake Loop is a popular moderate path that circles Tobyhanna Lake. You can also find trails near Gouldsboro Lake and Mountain Lake.
Most popular routes in Monroe County
Most popular attractions in Monroe County
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